Graceland West Community Association

Greetings, Graceland West Community!

Our recent GWCA Community Meeting, held on March 20 at Quantum LEEP Academy, was full of great discussions and exciting updates. We’re thrilled to share the highlights and the full meeting minutes with you.

Key Takeaways:

1. Quantum LEEP Academy Engagement: Lorell Marin, the founder, provided an overview of the Academy’s plans and expressed eagerness to integrate the community with the Academy’s activities.
2. 2024 Events and Initiatives:
   • Environmental Focus: The Chicago Bird Alliance’s Native Plant Sale and the Earth Day shrub/tree planting event.
   • Summer Quarterly Meeting: President of Chicago Bird Alliance, previously “Chicago Audubon Society” and possible community potluck.
   • Yoga in the Park: Plans for summer yoga sessions were shared, with a request for community input on preferred times.
3. Community Engagement and Safety:
   • Kid’s Pollinator Project: Scheduled for Warner Park with options for May 4 or May 11.
   • Historical Homes Focus: For the September meeting, we’re gathering stories and documents about pre-1900 homes.
   • Speed Bump Initiative: Discussions on Warner, Berteau, Greenview and Belle Plaine’s speed bumps.
4. Cubs Season Update: Heather Way Kitzes provided insights into the upcoming season’s plans, including environmental initiatives and community involvement.
5. Lake View High School’s 150th Anniversary: Julia Van Vliet highlighted the school’s significant milestone and ongoing community support initiatives. Currently the High School’s track team needs the community’s support purchasing attire. See their Amazon Wishlist.
6. Budget and Council Elections: An overview of the balanced budget for 2024 was presented, and congratulations to Colin McLeod and Janice Horwich on their re-election to the GWCA Council!

We wrapped up with discussions on old and new business.

Download the Detailed Meeting Minutes Here

Your involvement and enthusiasm make GWCA a vibrant and proactive community. Let’s keep this momentum going! Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming events and initiatives.

Join Us Next Time: Remember to mark your calendars for our next meeting June 20th at Warner Park. We can’t wait to see you there!

Thank you for your continued support and participation in the GWCA.

Join us at Quantum LEEP Academy, located at 1447 W Montrose Ave, for our Spring Community Meeting.

Mark your Calendar: Wednesday, March 20 at 7:00

Here’s what’s in store for you:

1. Meet Our Hosts: Quantum LEEP Academy Founder Lorell Marin will share insights about the school and their mission.
2. Special Guest: We’re thrilled to welcome Heather Way Kitzes the Chicago Cubs Director of Community and Government Affairs! She’ll share her experiences, vision and how we can collaborate to make our neighborhood even more vibrant. Let’s explore how we can team up with the Cubs to strengthen our ties with the organization.
3. Additional meeting topics:
   • GWCA budget vote: Have your say in our organization’s financial future.
   • Semi-Annual Council Election: We’re actively seeking passionate individuals to run for council positions! If you’re enthusiastic about the community, step up and make a difference. 
   • Garden Walk Sign-Up: Get ready for our most beautiful event! Sign up to show your garden.
   • Plant Sale Kickoff: Bring your green thumb and learn about the plant sale we are supporting.

We’ve attached the 2023 Cubs Neighborhood Protection Report that highlights some of the Cubs contributions over the past year.

See you there!